Denise Gayle Deaton

Denise Gayle Deaton, a cherished soul, passed away on November 5, 2024, at the age of 64. Born on August 23, 1960, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, her journey through life reflected her passions, her generosity, and her remarkable spirit.

Denise devoted 25 rewarding years to teaching at Dewey elementary, shaping young minds and fostering a love of learning before retiring to Grove, Oklahoma. Beyond her professional life, she was a proud mom, daughter, wife, and grandmother, deeply committed to her family. Denise's love for her children and family was evident in everything she did, and she regularly shared the joys and challenges that came with motherhood, cherishing each moment with her loved ones.

An adventurous spirit, Denise had a profound love for traveling, which took her across the globe, including many memorable trips to Europe. Although sometimes referred to as “picky,” she also found joy in simple pleasures such as enjoying Mexican food and her daily Diet Coke. Denise nurtured a beautiful home, filling it with warmth and charm.

She was blessed with a great sense of humor, which endeared her to many, and her generosity knew no bounds. She was always ready to lend a helping hand or share a laugh with those around her. Denise's ability to form strong friendships was evident throughout her life; she was unmistakably a fierce and loyal friend. Her beautiful soul touched the lives of those blessed to have known her.

Denise faced her final days with bravery and resilience, battling a devastating illness with toughness and fierceness until the very end.

She is survived by her mother, Charlene "Cheno" Kennedy; her husband, Steve Deaton; her son, Colby Deaton, and wife Destiny; her daughter, Carly Deaton Abbott, and late husband Jerad; her stepdaughter, Amy Edmiston and husband Rusty; and stepson, Tyler Deaton and wife Kendra; her brothers, David Kennedy and wife Kelly, and John Kennedy and wife Rhondi; and her cherished grandchildren, Hayes, Everly, Landry, Liam, Linlee, Lizzie, Max, Kaia, Pistol, and Honey. Denise was preceded in death by her father, David Kennedy, and her son-in-law, Jared Abbott.

Her legacy is one of love, strength, and humor, and will be forever etched in the hearts of her family and friends.